Camden Council has announced the temporary closure of a number of Council facilities, as a precautionary measure to minimise the risk of COVID-19 spreading.

As of Monday 23 March, the following facilities will be closed:

• Camden, Narellan and Oran Park Libraries;
• Camden Civic Centre;
• Alan Baker Art Gallery;
• Camden Visitor Information Centre;
• Mount Annan Leisure Centre;
• Camden War Memorial Pool; and
• Community Centres and Halls.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Theresa Fedeli, said the safety of the community, customers and staff was Council’s top priority.

"These were difficult decisions to make, but we believe it is in the best interest of our community," Cr Fedeli.

"It is crucial that we continue to follow advice from NSW Health by practicing social distancing and, when recommended, self-isolation," Cr Fedeli said.

"As the situation changes daily, we will continue to review our operations and services and keep the community informed."

Council’s Animal Care Facility is also now operating by appointment only. Residents can make an appointment to view and adopt a pet by calling 0418 530 492.

Residents can still access Camden Council Library Service’s online portal, at library.camden.nsw.gov.au. Library members will find a range of eBooks, eAudios and eMagazines.

The announcement follows this week’s postponement of Council events until early May, including:

• Camden Cultures (Saturday 21 March);
• Seniors Festival (ending 25 March);
• Spring Farm Community Centre Opening (Saturday 4 April);
• Youth Week (1-9 April);
• Bounce Town and Oran Park Water Play Space Opening (Wednesday 15 April); and

•  Paws in the Park (Sunday 3 May).

Over the next two weeks (until Sunday 5 April), Council has also cancelled:

•  Its Bushcare, sustainability and waste education programs; and

• Planned activities at Camden, Narellan and Oran Park Libraries, Alan Baker Art Gallery, Camden Civic Centre.

Based on current advice, Council’s ordinary meeting scheduled for next Tuesday 24 March has been cancelled. This is in accordance with Council’s Code of Meeting Practice. Agenda items for the meeting will be postponed to a future meeting.

The community is reminded to maintain good hygiene practises, by covering coughs and sneezes with their elbows and thoroughly washing their hands with soap and water for 20 seconds.

Social distancing practices have also been implemented, with staff and our community encouraged to remain 1.5 metres from each other and not shake hands.

Essential services will not be impacted at this stage.

For more information and Council’s latest updates regarding COVID-19, visit Council’s website at camden.nsw.gov.au/alerts